Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are a deliciously savory twist on the classic sloppy joe. They’re hearty, loaded with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions and bell peppers, all served on a warm, toasted bun. It’s not heavy or overly complicated either.

If you’re craving the flavors of a classic Philly cheese steak but want something quick and easy to make, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe combines the best of two comfort food favorites into a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together. Even if you’re not a fan of the traditional cheese steak, the combination of melty cheese, tender beef, and sweet bell peppers is undeniably delicious. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a cozy meal on the couch, these Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes will surely become a favorite.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Baking sheet (for toasting buns)
Cheese grater (if shredding cheese)

Ingredients Overview

Ground Beef Mixture:

Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for a flavorful yet not overly greasy filling.
Onion and Bell Peppers: Classic Philly cheese steak vegetables that add sweetness and texture.
Garlic: Adds an aromatic depth that enhances the flavors.

Seasonings and Sauce:

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a rich, savory umami flavor.
Beef Broth: Keeps the filling moist and adds beefy depth.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the meat and vegetables.

Cheese:

Provolone Cheese: Melts beautifully and provides that signature Philly cheese steak flavor. You can also use mozzarella for an extra gooey texture.

Buns:

Toasted Sandwich Buns: Toasting the buns helps prevent them from getting soggy and adds a nice crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion and bell peppers until they are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add the Cheese: Turn off the heat and layer slices of provolone cheese over the top of the beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt, about 2-3 minutes. Once melted, stir everything together to combine.
Toast the Buns: While the cheese is melting, toast the sandwich buns on a baking sheet in the oven or in a separate skillet until golden and slightly crisp.
Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the toasted buns and serve immediately. Enjoy your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes while they’re hot and melty!

Recipe Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic will yield the best flavor.
Toast the Buns: This simple step prevents the buns from getting soggy and adds a nice crunch to the dish.
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to use other types of cheese, like mozzarella, American, or a cheese blend, if you prefer a different flavor.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes pair well with:

French Fries: Crispy, golden fries are a classic side dish that never fails.
Potato Chips: Keep it simple with a bag of your favorite chips for a quick meal.
Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy slaw balances the richness of the cheesy beef.
Pickles: A side of dill pickles adds a nice, tangy contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. The flavors will be slightly different, but still delicious.

How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add the cheese when reheating for maximum freshness.

What type of cheese works best?
Provolone is the classic choice for Philly cheese steak, but mozzarella or even white American cheese work well too.

Serving Suggestions

Game Day Feast: Serve these sloppy joes with a platter of nachos and some ice-cold drinks.
Family Dinner: Pair with a simple side salad and baked potato wedges for a hearty meal.
Casual Get-Together: Add some roasted veggies or a bowl of warm soup to round out the meal.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1 large onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6-8 slices provolone cheese
6-8 sandwich buns, toasted
Olive oil, for sautéing

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Layer provolone cheese over the beef mixture, cover with a lid, and let the cheese melt. Stir to combine.
Toast sandwich buns on a baking sheet or in a skillet.
Spoon the beef mixture onto the toasted buns and serve immediately.

Enjoy these delicious, cheesy, and hearty Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes!